The day is finally here and you are having your roof replaced! What does that actually mean? Hopefully the roofing contractor that you selected took the time to sit down with you and explain all the roofing system components and how they work together to protect your home from the elements. If not, here is an overview on what should be done.
- Tear Off – When the crew arrives in the morning, the first thing they will do is take off the existing roof all the way down to the wood sheathing or decking. Once the roof has been completely removed, they will inspect the wood and replace any decking as needed that might have damaged caused by leaks or is no longer strong enough to hold the weight of the new roof.
- Gutter Apron Flashing – Next, they will install the gutter apron at all the eaves (where the gutter meets the roof) to ensure proper water flow into the gutters from the roof.
- Ice & Water Barrier – Here in Ohio, this step is required by the ORC to protect all the areas of the home where rain and ice build up could cause water intrusion into the home. Dependent on the amount of clearance from the heated portion of your home to where the gutter meets the roof, you might need 1, 1.5 or 2 rows of ice and water barrier to properly protect. This barrier is also installed in the valley and where the roof touches a wall of your home.
- Underlayment – A good quality synthetic underlayment will be installed over top of the ice and water barrier as well as any other areas of the wood decking. This is another water barrier to help keep you home leak free and provides the base for the shingles to be applied to.
- Starter Shingle – These are a special shingle that will provide the starting point for the shingle installation on the entire roof. These starter shingles are installed at the eaves to start the install process.
- Shingle Installation – This is where you will see your new roof come to life! The installers will start at the starter shingle and install the shingles going up to the peak of your roof.
- Ventilation – Most residential homes will then have ridge vents installed at the ridges (or the peaks) of the roof that work with the soffit or intake vents on the home. This is to provide air flow through your attic to allow the roof to get the needed airflow to make your new roof last longer.
- After this installation process, the roof will get a detailed inspection to ensure that all the components were installed correctly, the crew do a thorough clean up before leaving and you will be able to enjoy your new roof.
See this wonderful video from our partners at CertainTeed for a visual on how a roof is installed.
If you need a new roof in Columbus, Ohio, give us a call at (614) 289-1043 to see how we can transform your roof into a beautiful addition to your curb appeal!
